Travelogue 29/5/22 - Conservation of Rumah Warisan Haji Su

Despite both are categorised as conservation project, but compared to the Malay House in Terrapuri, Rumah Haji Su looks more luxury and high-end.

Rumah Haji Su belongs to a rich man called Haji Su Abdul Rahman who was a shipping magnate in the pre-wars day. It comprises 2 distinct Malay House: Rumah Bujang Berpeleh Kembar Tiga & Rumah Limas Belanda

Rumah Bujang Berpeleh Kembar Tiga was used as a family home over the many decades since late 1890 while Rumah Limas Belanda is a later addition constructed in 1941.

Before and after conservation work

Rumah Bujang Berpeleh Kembar Tiga (right)

& Rumah Limas Belanda (left).

Rumah Bujang Berpeleh Kembar Tiga with high ceiling, spacious interior

Exterior of Rumah Limas Belanda

Rumah Limas Belanda European style interior design

According to the conservationist, Haji Su had been visiting to many countries, so he wanted to built another house with foreign style. That's why Rumah Limas Belanda has a Dutch Hip Roof style, using ‘baloon-frame’ construction method and the interior also portrays a more vibrant European hues.

Sistem "tanggam and pasak",

a traditional construction method without nails

greenery can be easily look from the big window

traditional window shutter

decorative glazing

roof design to facilitate natural ventilation

stilted house can provide ventilation under the house,

minimize a house's footprint, use as storage space

I had learnt a lot feature in Malay House design throughout the trip. But, after a few visitation to traditional Malay house, I wonder is Malay House suitable for people with special needs? Especially the OKU. Despite the aesthetic and cultural value of Malay House, there is always change of levels and staircases in a Malay House. So far I never see Malay House has any ramp. Maybe a new style of Malay House can incorporate inclusive and accessible design so that its convenient for people with special needs.